Group trips are one of the most fun and rewarding ways to experience the outdoors. There’s nothing like loading up the car, getting off the grid, and creating memories with other women who love wild spaces and shared experiences. But the truth is: how good a group trip feels often comes down to how everyone shows up for one another. At Her Wilderness, we believe that every woman plays a role in creating the energy of the trip and the best ones are filled with people who are present, helpful, and community-minded. Whether you’re new to group adventures or a seasoned trip-goer, here are 10 ways to be a positive steward and an amazing contributor during your next weekend away.
1. Help Unpack More Than Just Your Own Bag
When the car rolls up and it’s time to unload, jump in. Grab the coolers, the gear bins, the firewood, the groceries, whatever needs moving. Everyone’s tired, so be the kind of person who makes it easier for the group, not just yourself.
Tip: Don’t wait to be asked. If something needs doing, do it.
2. Be Mindful of Bathroom Time
Shared spaces mean shared routines, especially when it comes to bathrooms. In the mornings and before bed, keep your time short and efficient so others can get in and out. Save long skincare routines or solo mirror talks for quieter moments.
Tip: If you’re a “slow morning” person, try to wake up a little earlier to avoid the rush.
3. Run the Errand, Offer the Ride
Notice someone forgot their toothbrush? Running low on snacks, coffee, or a bottle of wine? Be the person who volunteers to run a quick errand or invite others along for a mini mission to the store. These little gestures add up.
Tip: “I’m heading out for coffee, want me to grab anything?” is always a welcome phrase.
4. If You Owe Someone Money, Pay Them ASAP
Whether it’s gas money, a shared Airbnb, or someone covering your meal, don’t make people wait or ask twice. Send payment right away and double-check if you missed anything.
Tip: Settle up before the trip ends, it keeps energy clean and avoids awkward follow-ups later.
5. Clean As You Go
Keep shared spaces looking good. Wipe counters, rinse dishes, toss your wrappers, and help with post-meal cleanup. Even if you didn’t cook, offering to do dishes or take out trash shows you care.
Tip: “Need help with that?” is always a good thing to say out loud.
6. Respect Sleep, Space, and Energy
Group trips often include early risers, night owls, introverts, extroverts, and everything in between. Respect quiet time, be mindful of volume late at night, and remember: not everyone wants to socialize 24/7.
Tip: If you’re staying up late, take the party outside or to a quieter part of the house.
7. Share the Driving (or At Least the Snacks)
If you’re road-tripping, offer to drive a leg, DJ the music, handle directions, or pass out the road snacks. Being part of the driving team, even in small ways, keeps the vibe cooperative and fair.
Tip: If you can’t drive, offer to pump gas, pack the car, or bring road trip treats.
8. Go With the Flow
Not everything will go perfectly. Weather shifts, reservations fall through, people change their minds. Flexibility is one of the most underrated group trip superpowers. Roll with it.
Tip: A little laughter and a good attitude go a long way when plans change.
9. Say Thank You Often
Gratitude keeps group energy light and appreciated. Thank the cook. Thank the planner. Thank the fire starter. Expressing appreciation builds connection and lets others know their effort is noticed.
Tip: “Thanks for handling that, it made everything easier” is music to a tired trip leader’s ears.
10. Use Your Voice — With Kindness
Speak up when you need something, but do it gently. If something feels off, don’t let it simmer. A kind, honest word early on prevents tension later. And if you're feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to take space and reset.
Tip: “Hey, could we rotate sleeping spots next time?” is better than quietly resenting your air mattress.
Bonus: Other Thoughtful Travel Habits
Pack only what you need, but don’t count on borrowing things.
Don’t assume people want to share food, chargers, or toiletries. Ask first.
Clean your dishes before wandering off.
Don’t be that person when drinking. Know your limits.
Take photos for other people, not just of yourself!
Offer to rotate room choices if you’re staying multiple nights.
Compliment freely. Encourage others. Lift the group up.
In the end, group trips are about shared joy and shared responsibility.
When everyone brings their best energy, shows up for each other, and takes little moments to help, the trip transforms into something unforgettable. So the next time you hit the road or trail with Her Wilderness, remember: how you show up matters. Be the reason someone else says, “That was one of the best weekends I’ve had in a long time.”